conform | Words related to conform | Online Etymology Dictionary

Words related to conform

word-forming element meaning "together, with," sometimes merely intensive; it is the form of com- used in Latin before consonants except -b-, -p-, -l-, -m-, or -r-. In native English formations (such as costar), co- tends to be used where Latin would use con-.

form (v.)

c. 1300, formen, fourmen, "create, give life to, give shape or structure to; make, build, construct, devise," from Old French fourmer "formulate, express; draft, create, shape, mold" (12c.) and directly from Latin formare "to shape, fashion, build," also figurative, from forma "form, contour, figure, shape" (see form (n.)). From late 14c. as "go to make up, be a constituent part of;" intransitive sense "take form, come into form" is from 1722. Related: Formed; forming.

conformist (n.)

"one who conforms" in any way, 1630s, from conform + -ist. Compare conformism. Originally usually with reference to religion, "one who complies with the form of worship of the Church of England."

conformable (adj.)

late 15c., "corresponding in form or character, resembling," 1510s; see conform + -able. Meaning "compliant, ready to follow directions" is from 1520s. Related: Conformably; conformability.

conformism (n.)

1890, "tendency or need to conform" to some group standard, from conform + -ism. In religion, from c. 1902. In geology from c. 1912. Modern, general sociological sense (social conformism) popularized from c. 1948.

nonconforming (adj.)

also non-conforming, "failing or refusing to conform," 1640s, from non- + conforming (see conform). Originally in religion, "refusing to follow the forms and regulations of the Church of England;" see nonconformist.

Words related to conform

Trending words